They say first impressions last. Well, speaking of impressions, I could say that the first day of the Professional Education class was a blast. It was cheerful and full of practical lessons in a sense that I was able to get to know my teacher and classmates better. The first day of class gave me an impression that this course would be interesting all throughout the semester. I don’t want to expect a lot but I’m hoping to learn substantially as I prepare for the LET Exam and for the profession as a teacher.

Caption: Future Professional Teachers taking a break in a pizza shop

Even before Maám Diza told us to write a reflection, I already took down some short notes on how she handled the class. I remember writing on my notebook the phrases: “friendly, Godly, and integrates faith to learning”. So, here are some of my musings on the first day of the Prof Ed Class.

Caption: Becoming future teachers can be exciting! We may not be perfect, but our dedication to be the best is a plus point!

First, I observed that Prof Ed class would not be a typical one. The moment when Maám Diza started to articulate her thoughts especially when she pointed out about 21st century learning and the importance of class facilitation, I could say, hmmm “Maybe, this teacher is into Vygotsky’s Social Constructivism”. I like the way she encouraged students to get into interactive discussions and integrate Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to learning. I admire the friendliness she showed to the students. I’m also impressed with how she emphasized prayer at the onset of the class. That’s a brave thing to do. As a graduate of MSU-IIT, I know that in a non-sectarian school, religious stuff like that are not promoted. I do pray that this class will be imbued with Heavenly wisdom since the students will be the next generation of teachers who will impart knowledge and values to Filipinos.

Caption: To teach is to love. You can't teach lovingly if you don't love teaching itself.

Second, I find it amazing to get up close and personal with my classmates through the activity that we did in the class. Sharing about your personal trait can be challenging. It’s also nice to know that despite the religious and cultural diversity of the class, we’re able to understand each other through the said activity. I was quite struck when a Muslim classmate who was wearing a niqab appealed to the class that people should not judge Muslims just by looking at their physical appearance. It was also moving for me when she said that even if she’s veiling most of her face, she is not one of ‘them’. Her courageous action stimulated me to be a better Christian – full of love and care. The various educational backgrounds that we have made me enthusiastic about coming to class and engaging in discussions.

Caption: Despite our cultural and religious differences, we remain united in becoming excellent teachers for God's glory!

Lastly, I couldn’t help but get curious with this subject. Yes, it’s Psychology but it’s into the Educational perspective. My mind is full of questions. Am I going to study about theories of learning here? Or am I going to dig deeper on the kinds of learners? How will this help me become a professional teacher practically? How will I better reflect the love of Jesus as a teacher through the lessons that I will learn in this course? Those are the questions that are motivating me to study diligently.

Before I end this reflection, let me share to you the quotation from the book Education by Ellen White,

“True education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study. It means more than a preparation for the life that now is. It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man. It is the harmonic development of the physical, the mental, and the spiritual powers. It prepares the student for the joy of service in this world and for the higher joy of wider service in the world to come.”

------------ @abigailloveremo ----------

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